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No definition available.

Name:	ip_RestructuringAndOtherRelatedCharges
Namespace Prefix:	ip_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
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Restructuring and other related charges, accelerated amortization and other noncash costs

No definition available.

Name:	ip_Restructuringandotherrelatedchargesacceleratedamortizationandothernoncashcosts
Namespace Prefix:	ip_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
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Restructuring and other related charges, other

No definition available.

Name:	ip_Restructuringandotherrelatedchargesother
Namespace Prefix:	ip_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
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Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

No definition available.

Name:	us-gaap_RestructuringCostAndReserveLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
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Amount of accelerated depreciation charged against earnings associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructuring plan.

No definition available.

Name:	us-gaap_RestructuringReserveAcceleratedDepreciation
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
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Amount of expenses for special or contractual termination benefits provided to current employees involuntarily terminated under a benefit arrangement associated exit or disposal activities pursuant to an authorized plan. Excludes expenses related to one-time termination benefits, a discontinued operation or an asset retirement obligation.

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